Triple-digit temperatures arrive in Antelope Valley
PALMDALE — The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning Tuesday with high temperatures forecast for the Antelope Valley today and Thursday.
Forecasters cautioned about dangerously hot conditions with temperatures up to 107 degrees expected today and Thursday with warm overnight low temperatures in the Antelope Valley and eastern Antelope Valley foothills. The heat warning is in effect from 10 a.m. today through 8 p.m. Thursday.
According to the Weather Service, Palmdale Regional Airport and Gen. William J. Fox Airfield typically record their first 100 degree days around June 13, on average. Both cities reached that mark Tuesday, topping at 101 and 100, respectively — about nine days earlier than average. National Blend of Models solutions indicate a greater than 95% chance of hitting 100 degrees today and a 90% chance or higher on Thursday.
Other Valley highs Tuesday included 100 at Edwards Air Force Base and 97 in Mojave, Boron and Acton. Unofficial hourly peaks featured 100 in Rosamond and a relatively comfortable 90 in Valyermo.
The Los Angeles County health officer also issued an excessive heat warning for the Antelope Valley.
The county department of Public Health urged people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness, in particular for older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people with a chronic medical condition who are especially sensitive to negative health impacts from extreme heat.
Public Health offers the following recommendations during high temperature days:
• Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated throughout the day.
• If you must go out, plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest hours, and wear sunscreen. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothes, and wear a hat or use an umbrella.
• Cars get very hot inside, even if the windows are “cracked” or open. Never leave children or pets in cars. Call 911 if you see a child or pet in a car alone.
• Beware of and know what to do for heat-related illness, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Call 911 right away if you see these symptoms: high body temperature (103 or higher), vomiting, dizziness, confusion, and hot, red, dry, or damp skin. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
• Check on those at risk for heat-related illness, like those who are sick or have chronic conditions, older adults, pregnant women, children, those who live alone, pets, and outdoor workers and athletes.
• If you are wearing a mask, avoid strenuous workouts wearing face coverings or masks not intended for athletic purpose.
• Visit your power company’s website or contact them by phone to determine if you are scheduled for a rolling power outage.
“On hot days, it’s important for everyone to both take care of themselves and check on others, especially those who have a higher chance of getting ill due to the heat. Some of them include children, the elderly, those with health conditions, pregnant people, those living alone, and pets,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. “Hot days can be dangerous for anyone, so it’s crucial to stay cool and hydrated. Never leave children, the elderly, or pets alone in hot homes, places, or vehicles. Make sure to check on elderly or unwell neighbors and relatives regularly.”